Can Oklahoma State End Senior Day With a Victory? Breaking Down the Matchups

As Oklahoma State gears up for its final home game against Texas Tech, questions linger about the Cowboys’ strategy to balance honoring senior players with providing opportunities for younger talent. Coach Mike Gundy has been tight-lipped on his approach but emphasized that lineup decisions will prioritize the players who give the team the best shot at winning. After a challenging season and a seven-game losing streak, the Cowboys are eager to turn the tide Saturday afternoon at Boone Pickens Stadium. Here’s an in-depth look at the game’s key matchups.

Texas Tech’s Ground Game vs. OSU’s Run Defense

The Red Raiders’ running back Tahj Brooks is set to cap off a stellar career with one last showdown. Brooks, a dynamic 5-foot-10, 230-pound powerhouse, has established himself as one of the Big 12’s premier rushers. Facing a struggling Oklahoma State run defense—ranked among the worst in the league and prone to missed tackles—Brooks is poised to make a significant impact. The Cowboys will need a concerted defensive effort to slow him down, as their average of 15 missed tackles per game will leave plenty of opportunities for Brooks to exploit.

Texas Tech’s Passing Game vs. OSU’s Secondary

Quarterback Behren Morton has been a consistent performer for Texas Tech, boasting a 21-to-6 touchdown-to-interception ratio and averaging 257.6 passing yards per game. OSU’s secondary has struggled, as evidenced by TCU quarterback Josh Hoover’s standout performance against them in their last game. Morton’s versatility as a passer could pose serious challenges, requiring the Cowboys’ defensive backs to step up if they hope to contain him.

OSU’s Ground Attack: Veterans or Fresh Faces?

Oklahoma State’s run game presents a compelling storyline. Will Ollie Gordon II, widely expected to declare for the NFL, take center stage with a heavy workload? Or will younger backs like Sesi Vailahi, Trent Howland, and Rodney Fields Jr. get a chance to shine as the team looks toward 2025? Regardless of who carries the ball, the Cowboys should find success against a Texas Tech defense that’s been surrendering over 35 points per game.

Oklahoma State’s Passing Game: Spotlight on Maealiuaki Smith

One of the most intriguing decisions for OSU involves freshman quarterback Maealiuaki Smith. Having appeared in the last two games, Smith remains eligible to play two more without losing his redshirt status. Saturday offers a prime opportunity to give him extended snaps against a vulnerable Texas Tech pass defense, which has been allowing over 300 passing yards per game. Smith’s mobility adds another layer to the offense and could prove pivotal against the Red Raiders.

As Oklahoma State battles for redemption and a fitting send-off for its seniors, the game against Texas Tech promises to be both a test of character and a glimpse into the program’s future. With strategic choices to make and momentum to gain, the Cowboys aim to close out the season on a high note in front of their home crowd.